Stunning cascade of knitted poppies adorns village church

A stunning cascade of poppies has been unveiled at a village church in East Lothian.

More than 6,000 knitted and crocheted poppies adorn the artwork, which is 40ft long and 11ft high, outside Aberlady Parish Church.

The cascade, which was organised by Aberlady Craft Group ahead of Remembrance Day next month, inspired people from as far afield as Australia and France to send contributions.

Rev Brian Hilsley said the installation is a "magnificent tribute" to military personnel who have lost their lives.
Scott Burton.

Additional poppies have been installed within the church itself and on the pew ends with others made into brooches,which will be sold.

Rev Brian Hilsley, minister of Aberlady Parish Church, said: “On behalf of all at the Kirk, I would like to express admiration of and warm appreciation for the outstanding efforts of the Aberlady Craft Group in bringing this imaginative project to fulfilment.

“Our commemorations have special significance during the years 2014 to 2018 as we mark the 100th anniversary of the First World War.

“This installation is a magnificent tribute to all those who lost their lives in that conflict and since then.

“I pray that it will bring blessing to many and bear fruit in encouraging us all in the commitment to peace.”

"We look forward to the prospect of many additional visitors enjoying our beautiful church, enhanced by the cascade, and to the annual Remembrance observances on Sunday, November 12.

Additional poppies have been installed within the church itself and on the pew ends.
Scott Burton.

Work on the installation began in January this year at the regular meetings of the village craft group and as news of the project spread, poppies began to arrive from around the world.

Aberlady Craft Group spokeswoman, Anne Frost, said: "Many of the group's family and friends heard about it and sent in poppies.

“Some spread the word on cruises and we even had a delivery from a cruise ship.”

Local groups and members of the community also became involved and Aberlady Primary School pupils helped make poppies.

The combined community effort has been attached to a free-standing frame and will remain in the church yard until November 23.

All funds raised by the cascade and donations will go to Poppy Scotland.